Rhema ordination elevation service

(Newburgh) - Proud family and friends were among those who gathered last Saturday for the elevation service of Rhema Christian Worship Center deacon’s and minister’s at Ebenezer Baptist Church.
Pastor Gail Roberson gave special thanks to all for, “attending and joining us in congratulating the candidates as they embark in a new phase of their lives. Please continue to lift them up in prayer.” She also gave special thanks to Rev. Smith and the Ebenezer Baptist Church family, for “allowing us to host this celebration in their house.”
The ordination elevation service was for Deacon John Simpson, Jr., Deacon-elect Wesley Ellis, Deacon-elect Reggie Hanks, Minister-elect Justin Caesar and Minister-elect Anita Powell. The statement of purpose stated that the persons who were chosen have been, “recognized by the church as being called by God to the ordained ministry, are admitted to these sacred orders by solemn prayer and the laying on of Episcopal hands. It has been, and is, the intention and purpose of this Fellowship of Believers to maintain and continue these three orders; and for this purpose these services or ordination and consecration are appointed. No persons are granted the full power to exercise the offices of bishop, elder, or deacon in the church unless they are so ordained with the laying on of hands by the officials who themselves are duly qualified to confer Holy Orders.” Overseer Michel White-Haynes was Chief Officiator; Pastor Gail Roberson was Assistant Officiator; and Pastor Mose Styles III was the Official Presider.
The Presider, addressing the candidates stated, “You are called to guard the faith, unity and discipline of the Church, to celebrate and provide for the administration of the sacraments of the New Covenant; and to be in all things a faithful and wholesome example for the entire flock of Christ. Your joy will be to follow Him who came, not to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”
With the candidates’ affirmation of promises to commit themselves to God, to serve His Church and their respective offices, the laying on of hands (with Holy Oil) was performed. Overseer Michel White-Haynes then officially presented the newly elevated deacon’s and minister’s.